Air Travel Rules For Disabled

A traveler with disabilities, planning to take a trip by air, needs to familiarize themselves with air travel rules. Although most rules will be the same, some differ for those who have a medical condition or a disability.

When making flight reservations be sure to alert the airline or travel agent of the disability including any pertinent information about the condition, especially when there is medical equipment involved. Alternate steps will need to be taken for those who are traveling in wheelchairs, mobility scooters or carrying items such as personal oxygen tanks, medications and hypodermic needles.

Be aware that all medication must be in prescribed containers and the medical information must match the traveler’s information or it will be confiscated. This will make the process of clearing the security check points easier and help to make travel plans run more smoothly.

Unlike most air travelers, those with a disability can leave their shoes on if they choose to do so; however, if at all possible removing them will prevent any further delays. In the event that a disabled traveler is unable to do so, a quick swipe of a metal detector wand will be used for clearance. Airlines and airports go a long way to make disabled passengers feel as comfortable as possible. It’s just a matter of working with the airport, prior to arrival that makes all the difference. If the disabled person is in a wheelchair, there are all kinds of transportation units available to get them from gate to gate. They are also allowed to board ahead of everyone to give them sufficient time to get settled prior to the onslaught of regular passengers.

In light of the information above, questions about particular screening procedures, contact the airline in which you will be traveling. Making plans ahead of time is the best way to make the flight a memorable and hassle-free experience.